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The Suffragette Movement in London (Early 20th Century)

Introduction

Early Years of the Movement

The suffragette movement in London began to take shape around 1903, following the passage of the Representation of the People Act in 1918 that granted women over 30 the right to vote. However, it was not until 1909-1911 that a group of women, led by Emmeline Pankhurst and her daughters Christabel and Sylvia, began organizing protests and demonstrations against the disenfranchisement of women.

Key Facts

  • The movement gained momentum in 1913 with the formation of the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU), which advocated for women to be granted the right to vote.
  • In 1914, a group of suffragettes broke into the House of Lords during a debate over the Representation of the People Act, sparking widespread outrage and attention.
  • The movement drew support from various social groups, including trade unions, churches, and charities.
  • Suffragettes used a range of tactics, including picketing, sit-ins, and hunger strikes, to draw attention to their cause.

Historical Context

The suffragette movement was influenced by the women's rights movements in other parts of Europe and North America. The movement also drew on the example of the women's suffrage movement in New Zealand, which had granted women over 21 the right to vote in 1893.

Significant Contributions

  • Empowerment of Women: The suffragette movement helped to empower women to participate in politics and public life.
  • Challenging Patriarchy: The movement challenged patriarchal attitudes towards women's roles and rights.
  • Raising Awareness: The movement raised awareness about the issues faced by women, including poverty, inequality, and lack of representation.

Notable Attractions

The Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) Headquarters

  • Located at 14 Kensington Church Street in London
  • Opened in 1913 and served as the headquarters for the WSPU
  • Features exhibits on the history of the movement, including photographs and artifacts from suffragette protests

The House of Lords Debates

  • Took place between 1909-1911 during which a group of suffragettes broke into the House of Lords to protest against the Representation of the People Act
  • The debate highlighted the role of women in politics and sparked widespread outrage

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